Welcome to Smile Partners of Bel Air and Smile Partners of Havre de Grace

New Dentures: What You Need to Know

Posted September 9, 2016.

Getting dentures for the first time can be a big adjustment. When our dentists recommend dentures in Bel Air and Havre de Grace, Maryland, it is to restore the beauty and functionality of your smile. However, they take some getting used to. In order to prepare you for this change, here are some commonly asked questions about dentures.

What do new dentures feel like?Your new dentures may feel a little loose or odd for a few weeks until the muscles of your cheeks and tongue learn to keep them in place. It may also take you a few weeks to become comfortable inserting and removing them. Be aware that minor irritation, soreness, and an increase of saliva flow may occur when you first start wearing dentures. These issues will go away as your mouth adjusts.

Will dentures make me look different?Your dentures will be made to closely resemble your natural teeth, so there should be only a slightly noticeable change in your appearance. Depending on your specific case, dentures may even improve the appearance of your smile and fill out your face.

Will dentures change how I speak?When you begin wearing your new dentures, pronouncing certain words may be difficult. If this is the case, practice saying the difficult words out loud. You will become accustomed to speaking properly with dentures with practice and with time. Dentures sometimes slip when you cough, laugh, or smile. Reposition them by biting down gently and swallowing.

Will dentures make eating difficult?Eating with new dentures takes some practice and may be uncomfortable for a few weeks. The best way to get used to eating with new dentures is to start with soft foods cut into small pieces. Chew your food slowly using both sides of your mouth. As you become accustomed to your dentures, add other foods until you reach a normal diet. Be careful with foods that are hot, hard, sharp-edged, or sticky.

If you have any other questions or concerns, our dentists will be happy to assist you. We invite you to contact Bel Air Smile Partners today to learn more and to schedule an appointment.